The Watch Dude is a blog dedicated to men's timepieces. This blog typically covers affordable watch brands from Armitron to Wenger. However, interesting watches and the brands we dream of are also covered. Thanks for sharing my enthusiasm for watches!

Sunday, September 11, 2016

The Solid Citizen - Basic Citizen Watches for Men

When it comes to watches for men, sometimes basic models are best. They have a simple, functionality, that can be refreshing. The trend towards basic models that sometimes invoke the classic watches of the 1960s and 1970s, has been called the classical revival. I just think basic watches are good for readability, reliability, and focus on the essential task of telling the time. I recently spotted two excellent examples of basic watches from Citizen at my local Belk department store.

Citizen Men's Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Watch

The first watch I sighted is this Citizen Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Watch (Model BF0580-57L). It has a brilliant blue dial, a stainless steel band, and a pair of classic Citizen batons at 12 o'clock. It has a 40 millimeter diameter case, and a day and date window in the 3 o'clock position. It's the kind of no nonsense wristwatch that lets potential employers know that you are ready for business. The crown is protected with bump-outs from the case. Water resistance is only 30 meters so you'll have to leave it in your shoes when you go to the beach.

Citizen Stainless Steel Watch

Watches like this Citizen Stainless Watch go on sale regularly and can bring customers into a department store like Belk. The venerable southern department store currently lists these watches for $89.97 online. The price on Amazon follows closely.

Citizen Men's Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch

This Citizen Men's Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch (Model BI1030-53A) is another no-nonsense watch that is perfect for job interviews. It has a 42 millimeter diameter case with a date window at the 6 o'clock position.

Citizen Silver Tone Three Hand Watch (Basic)

Belk calls this watch the Silver Tone Three Hand Watch (Basic) and sells it for around $90. It's a good deal. However, it's also worth noting that for a little extra ($50 to $60), you could get watches like these in the hassle-free, battery-free, Citizen Eco-Drive format.

As simple as these watches seem, it's tempting to simply buy a generic watch. There are plenty of them around. However, you notice the fit, finish, and quality of materials simply aren't up to the levels set by the mainstream powerhouse brands like Citizen, Seiko, or Pulsar. It's worth it to get into the respected brands. Otherwise, a watch might get noticed for all the wrong reasons.